Pharmaceutical composition for treating migraine

ABSTRACT

The present application relates to a method of treating migraine or cluster headache in a human patient, said method comprising administering subcutaneously composition comprising sumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt, in an amount equivalent to 3 mg sumatriptan base.

PRIORITY

This application claims priority to Indian Patent Application No.4076/CHE/2015 filed Aug. 5, 2015, the entire disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND Field

The present disclosure relates to compositions and methods for treatingmigraine or cluster headache in a human patient.

Description of the Related Art

Migraine is a common neurological disorder that greatly affects qualityof life and increases work disruption. An average of 6% and 17% of menand women, respectively, suffer from migraine headache. The cause ofmigraine is uncertain but may be the result of vascular and/orneurological dysfunction.

Sumatriptan has been approved for treatment of migraines and isavailable in various dosage forms, such as subcutaneous injection, oraltablets and nasal spray and marketed in different strengths (6 to 100mg). Sumatriptan is a serotonin type 1 receptor agonist that has aselective but heterogeneous effect on the carotid arterial system torelieve migraines. Current theories proposed to explain the etiology ofmigraine headache suggest that symptoms are due to local cranialvasodilatation and/or to the release of sensory neuropeptides (includingsubstance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide) through nerve endingsin the trigeminal system. The therapeutic activity of sumatriptan forthe treatment of migraine is thought to be due to the agonist effects atthe 5-HT 1B/1D receptors on intracranial blood vessels (including thearterio-venous anastomoses) and sensory nerves of the trigeminal system,which result in cranial vessel constriction and inhibition ofpro-inflammatory neuropeptide release (IMITREX® Injection Labeling,October 2012).

The approved IMITREX® subcutaneous injection products for the acutetreatment of migraine, with or without aura, are available in 4 mg/0.5mL and 6 mg/0.5 mL concentrations as single-dose pre-filled syringes(PFSs) for use with an autoinjector pen (IMITREX® STATdose, NDA 020080),and as a single-dose vial of 6 mg/0.5 mL for SC injection (IMITREX®).

These available subcutaneous injections of sumatriptan products havemoderate to severe side effects. To lower the incidence of side effectsand to increase the patient adherence to sumatriptan therapy there isalways a need for newer strength of sumatriptan subcutaneous injectionproduct.

SUMMARY

Some embodiments disclosed herein provide methods of treating migraineor cluster headache in a patient in need thereof, said methodcomprising: subcutaneously administering to the patient a compositioncomprising an aqueous solution of sumatriptan or its pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts thereof in an amount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptanbase, and sodium chloride in an amount to maintain the osmolality ofsaid solution between 275 to 315 mOsm/kg; wherein said sumatriptan andsodium chloride are present in a ratio of from about 0.80:1.00 to about1.40:1.00; wherein said composition has a pH of about 4.2 to 5.3; andwherein the subcutaneous administration of said composition to thepatient results in a systemic exposure characterized by at least one ofthe following plasma profiles: (a) C_(max) of about 35 ng/ml to about 57ng/ml; (b) AUC₀₋₂ of about 30 ng·hr/ml to about 50 ng·hr/ml; (c)AUC_(0-inf) of about 43 ng·hr/ml to about 70 ng·hr/ml.

In some embodiments, the methods comprise measuring the patient's bodymass index (BMI). In some embodiments, the subcutaneous administrationresults in a systemic exposure that is greater in patients with a BMI ofless than about 26 compared to patients with a BMI of greater than orequal to about 26. In some embodiments, the subcutaneous administrationresults in a systemic exposure that is greater than that achieved by anequivalent dose of a commercially available sumatriptan in patients witha BMI of less than about 26. In some embodiments, the equivalent dose (3mg) of the commercially available sumatriptan is half of a 6 mgsumatriptan subcutaneous injection sold under the brand name ofIMITREX®. In some embodiments, the subcutaneous administration resultsin a systemic exposure that is higher in white patients than innon-white patients. In some embodiments, the subcutaneous administrationresults in a C_(max) that is greater than 50 ng/ml in patients having aBMI of less than about 26. In some embodiments, the subcutaneousadministration results in an AUC₀₋₂ that is greater than 40 ng·hr/ml inpatients having a BMI of less than about 26. In some embodiments, thesubcutaneous administration results in an AUC_(0-inf) that is greaterthan 60 ng·hr/ml in patients having a BMI of less than about 26.

Some embodiments disclosed herein provide methods of treating migraineor cluster headache in a patient in need thereof, said methodcomprising: measuring the BMI of the patient; selecting the patienthaving a BMI of less than about 26; subcutaneously administering to thepatient a composition comprising an aqueous solution of sumatriptan orits pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof in an amount equivalent to3 mg of sumatriptan base, and sodium chloride in an amount to maintainthe osmolality of said solution between 275 to 315 mOsm/kg; wherein saidsumatriptan and sodium chloride are present in a ratio of from about0.80:1.00 to about 1.40:1.00; wherein said composition has a pH of about4.2 to 5.3; and wherein the subcutaneous administration of saidcomposition to the patient results in a systemic exposure characterizedby at least one of the following plasma profiles: (a) C_(max) of about35 ng/ml to about 57 ng/ml; (b) AUC₀₋₂ of about 30 ng·hr/ml to about 50ng·hr/ml; (c) AUC_(0-inf) of about 43 ng·hr/ml to about 70 ng·hr/ml.

In some embodiments, the subcutaneous administration results in asystemic exposure that is greater than that achieved by an equivalentdose of a commercially available sumatriptan. In some embodiments, theequivalent dose (3 mg) of the commercially available sumatriptan is halfof a 6 mg sumatriptan subcutaneous injection sold under the brand nameof IMITREX®.

Some embodiments disclosed herein provide methods of treating migraineor cluster headache in a patient, said method comprising: subcutaneouslyadministering to the patient, at a maximum recommended frequencyaccording to the body mass index (BMI) of the patient, a compositioncomprising an aqueous solution of sumatriptan or its pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts thereof in an amount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptanbase, and sodium chloride in an amount to maintain the osmolality ofsaid solution between 275 to 315 mOsm/kg; wherein said sumatriptan andsodium chloride are present in a ratio of from about 0.80:1.00 to about1.40:1.00; wherein said composition has a pH of about 4.2 to 5.3; andwherein the subcutaneous administration of said composition to thepatient results in a systemic exposure characterized by at least one ofthe following plasma profiles: (a) C_(max) of about 35 ng/ml to about 57ng/ml; (b) AUC₀₋₂ of about 30 ng·hr/ml to about 50 ng·hr/ml; (c)AUC_(0-inf) of about 43 ng·hr/ml to about 70 ng·hr/ml.

In some embodiments, the maximum recommended frequency of administrationis not more than four times a day if the BMI is less than about 26. Insome embodiments, the maximum recommended frequency of administration isnot more than four times a day if the BMI is greater than or equal toabout 26.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Definitions

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art.

The term “about,” as used herein, means within 10% of a given value orrange. Alternatively, the term “about” means within an acceptablestandard error of the mean.

The term “sumatriptan” herein refers to sumatriptan or itspharmaceutically acceptable salt. The amount of sumatriptanpharmaceutically acceptable salt used in the composition as per thisdisclosure is equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base. For example 4.2 mgof sumatriptan succinate salt is equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base.

The term “migraine” herein refers to migraine with or without aura.

The term “treating migraine” herein refers to acute treatment ofmigraine attacks with or without aura.

The term “treating cluster headache” herein refers to acute treatment ofcluster headache episodes, with or without migraine.

A therapeutic agent or a protective agent may comprise a “drug.” As usedherein, a “drug” refers to a therapeutic agent or a diagnostic agent andincludes any substance, other than food, used in the prevention,diagnosis, alleviation, treatment, or cure of a disease. Stedman'sMedical Dictionary, 25th Edition (1990). The drug can include anysubstance disclosed in at least one of: The Merck Index, 12th Edition(1996); Pei-Show Juo, Concise Dictionary of Biomedicine and MolecularBiology, (1996); U.S. Pharmacopeia Dictionary, 2000 Edition; andPhysician's Desk Reference, 2001 Edition. In some embodiments, thetherapeutic agent is one of the embodiments of the compositionsdescribed herein.

The term “comprising” as used herein is synonymous with “including,”“containing,” or “characterized by,” and is inclusive or open-ended anddoes not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

Other objects, advantages and features of the present disclosure willbecome apparent from the following specification.

Sumatriptan Compositions

Some embodiments disclosed herein provide sumatriptan compositionscomprising an aqueous solution of sumatriptan or its pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts thereof in an amount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptanbase and sodium chloride in an amount to maintain the osmolality of saidsolution between 275 to 315 mOsm/kg. In some embodiments, thesumatriptan and sodium chloride are present in a ratio of from about0.80:1.00 to about 1.40:1.00. In some embodiments, the sumatriptancompositions have a pH of 4.2 to 5.3.

In some embodiments, the compositions comprise an aqueous solution ofsumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof in anamount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base and sodium chloride in anamount to maintain the osmolality of said solution between 275 to 315mOsm/kg; wherein said sumatriptan and sodium chloride are present in aratio of from about 0.80:1.00 to about 1.40:1.00, and wherein the totalvolume of the sumatriptan compositions is about 0.5 ml.

In some embodiments, the compositions comprise an aqueous solution ofsumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof in anamount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base and sodium chloride in anamount to maintain the osmolality of said solution between 275 to 315mOsm/kg; wherein said sumatriptan and sodium chloride are present in aratio of from about 0.80:1.00 to about 1.40:1.00, wherein thesumatriptan compositions have a pH of 4.2 to 5.3, and wherein the totalvolume of the sumatriptan compositions is about 0.5 ml.

In some embodiments, the compositions comprise an aqueous solution ofsumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof in anamount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base and sodium chloride in anamount to maintain the osmolality of said solution between 275 to 315mOsm/kg; wherein said sumatriptan and sodium chloride are present in aratio of from about 0.80:1.00 to about 1.40:1.00, and wherein thesumatriptan compositions have a pH of 4.2 to 5.3 and are stable for theperiod of at least 3 months when stored at 40±2° C. and 75±5% relativehumidity.

In some embodiments, the compositions comprise about 0.5 ml of aqueoussolution of sumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereofin an amount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base and sodium chloridein an amount to maintain the osmolality of said solution between 275 to315 mOsm/kg; wherein said sumatriptan and sodium chloride are present ina ratio of from about 0.80:1.00 to about 1.40:1.00, and wherein thesumatriptan compositions have a pH of 4.2 to 5.3 and are stable for theperiod of at least 3 months when stored at 40±2° C. and 75±5% relativehumidity.

In some embodiments, the compositions comprise an aqueous solution ofsumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof in anamount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base and sodium chloride in anamount to maintain the osmolality of said solution between 275 to 315mOsm/kg; wherein said sumatriptan and sodium chloride are present in aratio of from about 0.80:1.00 to about 1.40:1.00, and wherein thesumatriptan compositions have a pH of 4.2 to 5.3 and are stable for theperiod of at least 12 months when stored at 30±2° C. and 65±5% relativehumidity.

In some embodiments, the compositions comprise about 0.5 ml of aqueoussolution of sumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereofin an amount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base and sodium chloridein an amount to maintain the osmolality of said solution between 275 to315 mOsm/kg; wherein said sumatriptan and sodium chloride are present ina ratio of from about 0.80:1.00 to about 1.40:1.00, and wherein thesumatriptan compositions have a pH of 4.2 to 5.3 and are stable for theperiod of at least 12 months when stored at 30±2° C. and 65±5% relativehumidity.

In some embodiments, the compositions comprise an aqueous solution ofsumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof in anamount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base and sodium chloride in anamount to maintain the osmolality of said solution between 275 to 315mOsm/kg; wherein said sumatriptan and sodium chloride are present in aratio of from about 0.80:1.00 to about 1.40:1.00, and wherein thesumatriptan compositions have a pH of 4.2 to 5.3 and are stable for atleast 3 months at 40° C./75% relative humidity or for at least 12 monthsat 30° C./65% relative humidity.

In some embodiments, the compositions comprise about 0.5 ml of aqueoussolution of sumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereofin an amount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base and sodium chloridein an amount to maintain the osmolality of said solution between 275 to315 mOsm/kg; wherein said sumatriptan and sodium chloride are present ina ratio of from about 0.80:1.00 to about 1.40:1.00, and wherein thesumatriptan compositions have a pH of 4.2 to 5.3 and are stable for atleast 3 months at 40° C./75% relative humidity or for at least 12 monthsat 30° C./65% relative humidity.

The sumatriptan solution may be formulated in a variety of compositions,for example, as a sterile injectable composition. A sterile injectablecomposition, such as a sterile injectable aqueous or oleaginoussuspension, may be formulated according to techniques known in the artusing suitable dispersing or wetting agents and suspending agents. Thesterile injectable preparation may also be a sterile injectable solutionor suspension in a non-toxic parenterally acceptable diluent or solvent.Among the acceptable vehicles and solvents that may be employed includemannitol, water, Ringer's solution and isotonic sodium chloridesolution. Suitable carriers and other pharmaceutical compositioncomponents are typically sterile.

Methods of Treating Migraine or Cluster Headache

Some embodiments disclosed herein provide methods of treating migraineor cluster headache in a patient in need thereof, said methodcomprising: subcutaneously administering to the patient a compositioncomprising an aqueous solution of sumatriptan or its pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts thereof in an amount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptanbase, and sodium chloride in an amount to maintain the osmolality ofsaid solution between 275 to 315 mOsm/kg.

To practice the methods disclosed herein, the sumatriptan compositionmay be adjusted to have a pH that is suitable for subcutaneousadministration, such as a pH of about 4.2 to 5.3. The aqueous solutionof sumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof andsodium chloride may be present in the composition in any suitableratios, for example, from about 0.80:1.00 to about 1.40:1.00.

Commercially available sumatriptan subcutaneous injection could be 6 mgsumatriptan subcutaneous injection sold under the brand name of IMITREXOby GlaxoSmithKline or its generic versions. Commercially availablesumatriptan subcutaneous injection may also include 4 mg sumatriptansubcutaneous injection sold under the brand name of IMITREX® STATdose byGlaxoSmithKline or its generic versions.

The subcutaneous administration of the sumatriptan composition asdisclosed herein may result in a systemic exposure that is equivalent toor greater than that achieved by an equivalent dose (3 mg) of acommercially available sumatriptan in patients, e.g., half of a 6 mgsumatriptan subcutaneous injection sold under the brand name ofIMITREX®. For example, the subcutaneous administration of thesumatriptan composition as disclosed herein may result in a systemicexposure, e.g., C_(max), AUC_(0-t), AUC₀₋₂ or AUC_(0-inf), that isequivalent to or greater than that achieved by an equivalent dose of acommercially available sumatriptan in patients. In some embodiments, thesubcutaneous administration of the sumatriptan composition as disclosedherein may result in a systemic exposure, e.g., C_(max), AUC_(0-t),AUC₀₋₂ or AUC_(0-inf), that is higher than that achieved by anequivalent dose of a commercially available sumatriptan in patients. Insome embodiments, the subcutaneous administration of the sumatriptancomposition as disclosed herein may result in a systemic exposure, e.g.,C_(max), AUC_(0-t), AUC₀₋₂ or AUC_(0-inf), that is about the same ofthat achieved by a higher dose, e.g., 4 mg, of a commercially availablesumatriptan in patients.

In some embodiments, a method of treating migraine or cluster headachein a patient in need thereof is disclosed. The method includessubcutaneously administering to the patient a composition comprising anaqueous solution of sumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable saltsthereof in an amount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base, and sodiumchloride in an amount to maintain the osmolality of the solution between275 to 315 mOsm/kg. The sumatriptan and sodium chloride are present in aratio of from about 0.80:1.00 to about 1.40:1.00. The composition has apH of about 4.2 to 5.3. Subcutaneous administration of the compositionto the patient results in a systemic exposure characterized by at leastone of the following plasma profiles: C_(max) of about 35 ng/ml to about57 ng/ml; AUC₀₋₂ of about 30 ng·hr/ml to about 50 ng·hr/ml; AUC_(0-t) ofabout 41 ng·hr/ml to about 68 ng·hr/ml; and AUC_(0-inf) of about 43ng·hr/ml to about 70 ng·hr/ml.

In some embodiments, the subcutaneous administration of said compositionto the patient results in a systemic exposure that is at 90% ConfidenceInterval (CI) of the relative mean of C_(max), AUC_(0-t), AUC_(0-inf)and AUC₀₋₂ within 80.00% to 125.00% of 0.25 ml of commercially available6 mg/0.5 ml sumatriptan subcutaneous injection.

In some embodiments, the subcutaneous administration of the sumatriptancomposition may result in a systemic exposure that is significantlyhigher in certain patients than in other patients. For example, in someembodiments, the subcutaneous administration results in a systemicexposure that is significantly higher in white patients than innon-white patients.

Effects of Body Mass Index (BMI) on Systemic Exposure

Without being bound by theory, the presently disclosed methods result insystemic exposures that correlate to the BMI of the patients beingtreated. For example, the subcutaneous administration of the sumatriptancomposition results in a systemic exposure that is greater in patientswith a lower BMI compared to patients with a higher BMI. In someembodiments, the subcutaneous administration results in a systemicexposure that is greater in patients with a BMI of less than about 26compared to patients with a BMI of greater than or equal to about 26.The difference between the systemic exposure of patients with a BMI ofless than about 26 and a systemic exposure of patients with a BMI ofgreater than or equal to about 26 may be statistically significant.

Therefore, in some embodiments, the methods disclosed herein maycomprise measuring the patient's BMI. The BMI is defined as the bodymass divided by the square of the body height, and is universallyexpressed in units of kg/m², resulting from mass in kilograms and heightin meters.

It will be appreciated that the correlation between the systemicexposure and the BMI of the patient may be used in a variety of ways tooptimize the effectiveness and/or minimize the side effects of thesumatriptan composition disclosed herein. For example, the BMI of thepatients may be used to select patients that will achieve a highersystemic exposure, and therefore more effectiveness using thesumatriptan composition disclosed herein. The BMI of the patients mayalso be used to select patients that will achieve similar effectivenessusing the 3 mg sumatriptan composition disclosed herein as using thehigher dose, e.g., 4 mg or 6 mg, of a commercially availablesumatriptan, and therefore fewer side effects. Alternatively, the BMI ofthe patients may be used to calculate the maximum recommended frequencyof administration of the sumatriptan composition disclosed herein. Insome embodiments, patients with a higher BMI will be given a highermaximum recommended frequency of administration in comparison topatients with a lower BMI.

Patient Selection

Accordingly, some embodiments disclosed herein provide methods oftreating migraine or cluster headache in a patient in need thereof, saidmethod comprising: measuring the BMI of the patient; selecting thepatient having a BMI of less than about 26; subcutaneously administeringto the patient a composition comprising an aqueous solution ofsumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof in anamount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base, and sodium chloride in anamount to maintain the osmolality of said solution between 275 to 315mOsm/kg.

The subcutaneous administration of the sumatriptan composition asdisclosed herein may result in a systemic exposure that is equivalent toor greater than that achieved by an equivalent dose (3 mg) of acommercially available sumatriptan, e.g., half of a 6 mg sumatriptansubcutaneous injection sold under the brand name of IMITREX®, inpatients with a BMI of less than about 26. For example, the subcutaneousadministration of the sumatriptan composition as disclosed herein mayresult in a systemic exposure, e.g., C_(max), AUC_(0-t), AUC₀₋₂ orAUC_(0-inf), that is equivalent to or greater than that achieved by anequivalent dose of a commercially available sumatriptan, e.g., half of a6 mg sumatriptan subcutaneous injection sold under the brand name ofIMITREX®, in patients with a BMI of less than about 26. In someembodiments, the subcutaneous administration of the sumatriptancomposition as disclosed herein may result in a systemic exposure, e.g.,C_(max), AUC_(0-t), AUC₀₋₂ or AUC_(0-inf), that is higher than thatachieved by an equivalent dose of a commercially available sumatriptan,e.g., half of a 6 mg sumatriptan subcutaneous injection sold under thebrand name of IMITREX®, in patients with a BMI of less than about 26. Insome embodiments, the subcutaneous administration of the sumatriptancomposition as disclosed herein may result in a systemic exposure inpatients with a BMI of less than about 26, e.g., C_(max), AUC_(0-t),AUC₀₋₂ or AUC_(0-inf), that is about the same of that achieved by ahigher dose, e.g., 4 mg or 6 mg, of a commercially available sumatriptanin patients with a BMI of greater than or equal to about 26.

Some embodiments disclosed herein provide methods of treating migraineor cluster headache in a patient in need thereof, said methodcomprising: measuring the BMI of the patient; selecting the patienthaving a BMI of greater than or equal to about 26; subcutaneouslyadministering to the patient a composition comprising an aqueoussolution of sumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereofin an amount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base, and sodium chloridein an amount to maintain the osmolality of said solution between 275 to315 mOsm/kg.

The subcutaneous administration of the sumatriptan composition asdisclosed herein may result in a systemic exposure that is equivalent toor greater than that achieved by an equivalent dose (3 mg) of acommercially available sumatriptan, e.g., half of a 6 mg sumatriptansubcutaneous injection sold under the brand name of IMITREX®, inpatients with a BMI of greater than or equal to about 26. For example,the subcutaneous administration of the sumatriptan composition asdisclosed herein may result in a systemic exposure, e.g., C_(max),AUC_(0-t), AUC₀₋₂ or AUC_(0-inf), that is equivalent to or greater thanthat achieved by an equivalent dose of a commercially availablesumatriptan, e.g., half of a 6 mg sumatriptan subcutaneous injectionsold under the brand name of IMITREX®, in patients with a BMI of greaterthan or equal to about 26. In some embodiments, the subcutaneousadministration of the sumatriptan composition as disclosed herein mayresult in a systemic exposure, e.g., C_(max), AUC_(0-t), AUC₀₋₂ orAUC_(0-inf), that is higher than that achieved by an equivalent dose ofa commercially available sumatriptan, e.g., half of a 6 mg sumatriptansubcutaneous injection sold under the brand name of IMITREX®, inpatients with a BMI of greater than or equal to about 26.

Methods of Reducing Side Effects

Some embodiments disclosed herein provide methods of treating migraineor cluster headache in a patient in need thereof, said methodcomprising: subcutaneously administering to the patient a compositioncomprising an aqueous solution of sumatriptan or its pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts thereof in an amount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptanbase, and sodium chloride in an amount to maintain the osmolality ofsaid solution between 275 to 315 mOsm/kg; wherein incidences of sideeffects are reduced at least 10% compared with commercially availablesumatriptan subcutaneous injection.

The generally observed adverse or side effects of sumatriptan can becategorized as atypical sensations which includes tingling, warm or hotsensation, feeling of heaviness, burning sensation, numbness, feelingstrange, tight feeling in head; cardiovascular adverse effect such aswhich includes discomfort in throat, nasal cavity/sinuses, flushing,chest discomfort, tightness in chest, pressure in chest, ear, nose, andthroat; musculoskeletal adverse effect such as weakness, Neckpain/stiffness myalgia; neurological adverse effect such as dizziness orvertigo, drowsiness or sedation; miscellaneous adverse effects such asjaw discomfort and sweating.

It would be appreciated that the incidence of side effects may bedirectly or indirectly associated with the systemic exposure in apatient. Therefore, to reduce the incidence of side effects, it may bedesirable to lower the systemic exposure in comparison to a commerciallyavailable sumatriptan. For example, the methods disclosed herein mayresult in a lower systemic exposure in patients in comparison topatients treated with a higher dose, e.g., 4 mg or 6 mg, of acommercially available sumatriptan. In some embodiments, the methodsdisclosed herein may result in a systemic exposure that is 10%, 20%,30%, 40%, 50% lower in patients in comparison to patients treated with ahigher dose, e.g., 4 mg or 6 mg, of a commercially availablesumatriptan.

The methods disclosed herein may also be used to reduce the incidence ofside effects by lowering the systemic exposure in patients with low orhigh BMI in comparison to patients treated with a commercially availablesumatriptan. In some embodiments, the methods disclosed herein mayresult in a systemic exposure that is 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% lower inpatients with a BMI of less than about 26 in comparison to patients witha BMI of less than about 26 treated with a higher dose, e.g., 4 mg or 6mg, of a commercially available sumatriptan. In some embodiments, themethods disclosed herein may result in a systemic exposure that is 10%,20%, 30%, 40%, 50% lower in patients with a BMI of greater than or equalto about 26 in comparison to patients treated with a higher dose, e.g.,4 mg or 6 mg, of a commercially available sumatriptan with a BMI ofgreater than or equal to about 26. In some embodiments, the methodsdisclosed herein may result in a systemic exposure that is 10%, 20%,30%, 40%, 50% lower in patients with a BMI of greater than or equal toabout 26 in comparison to patients treated with a higher dose, e.g., 4mg or 6 mg, of a commercially available sumatriptan with a BMI of lessthan about 26. In some embodiments, the methods disclosed herein mayresult in a systemic exposure that is 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% lower inpatients with a BMI of less than about 26 in comparison to patientstreated with a higher dose, e.g., 4 mg or 6 mg, of a commerciallyavailable sumatriptan with a BMI of greater than or equal to about 26.

Methods of Adjusting Frequency of Administration

Some embodiments disclosed herein provide methods of treating migraineor cluster headache in a patient in need thereof, said methodcomprising: subcutaneously administering to the patient, at a maximumrecommended frequency according to the body mass index (BMI) of thepatient, a composition comprising an aqueous solution of sumatriptan orits pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof in an amount equivalent to3 mg of sumatriptan base, and sodium chloride in an amount to maintainthe osmolality of said solution between 275 to 315 mOsm/kg. In someembodiments, the maximum recommended frequency of administration is notmore than four times a day if the BMI is less than about 26. In someembodiments, the maximum recommended frequency of administration is notmore than four times a day if the BMI is greater than or equal to about26.

Methods for Treating Medication Overuse Headache or Rapid EscalatingMigraine

Some embodiments disclosed herein provide methods for treatingmedication overuse headache or rapid escalating migraine in a patient inneed thereof, said method comprising: subcutaneously administeringsubcutaneously administering a composition comprising an aqueoussolution of sumatriptan or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereofin an amount equivalent to 3 mg of sumatriptan base, and sodium chloridein an amount to maintain the osmolality of said solution between 275 to315 mOsm/kg.

In some aspects of the above embodiments, the methods do not requiredetoxification of patients including withdrawal of the overused drugs.

Methods of making the Sumatriptan Compositions

Some embodiments disclosed herein provide methods of making acomposition comprising an aqueous solution of present application ismanufactured by a two-step process comprising the steps of:

-   -   mixing sodium chloride in 80% (of batch size) of water for        injection and preparing a solution; and    -   adding required quantity of sumatriptan or its pharmaceutically        acceptable salts thereof in the solution of step a, and making        the final volume up to 100% (of batch size) using water for        injection; wherein the process steps being performed in said        order to maintain the osmolality of said solution between 275 to        315 mOsm/kg and increases solubility of sumatriptan by at least        9 percent.

In some embodiments, the composition disclosed herein may be sterilizedby filtration. Terminal sterilization may cause instability and increasein impurities in the compositions disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, the compositions disclosed herein may bemanufactured in light controlled conditions. U.V. and visible light maycause instability and increase in impurities in the compositionsdisclosed herein.

In some embodiments, the compositions disclosed herein can be dispensedby suitable device such autoinjector devices, prefilled syringes,ampoules, vials, a glass vial, a plastic vial etc.

In some embodiments, the compositions disclosed herein can be dispensedby pre-filled syringe fully assembled into an auto-injector device.

In some embodiments, the compositions disclosed herein can be dispensedin disposable, single-use auto-injector containing about 0.5 mL ofsumatriptan succinate in an amount equivalent to 3.0 mg of sumatriptanbase in a pre-filled syringe (PFS) fully assembled for ready use.

In some embodiments, the compositions disclosed herein can be dispensedin suitable devices that are suitable for containment andadministration. Further, the devices are packed in suitable secondarypackage a material that envelops the devices. The secondary packagingprovides additional barriers to elements that can degrade thecomposition such as light and oxygen. Some devices may also be designedto permeable to oxygen and other gases. For example, syringes,cartridges and the like can have permeable parts to allow sterilizationprocess with, for example, ethylene oxide.

In some embodiments, the compositions disclosed herein comprise asecondary packaging in addition to the dispensed devices. Secondarypackaging includes any container that receives the device (e.g., a box,bag, blister, canister, bottle and the like) and is sealed to preventingress of oxygen. The secondary packaging is made from material thathas very low permeability to oxygen molecules (e.g., ethylene vinylalcohol, aluminum, glass, polyamide and the like). In certain instances,the secondary packaging further comprises an oxygen absorber inside. Theoxygen absorber functions to absorb any oxygen present in the secondarypackaging. Suitable materials for oxygen absorbers include iron, lowmolecular weight organic compounds such as ascorbic acid and sodiumascorbate and polymeric materials incorporating a resin and a catalyst.Oxygen absorbers are contemplated to be in any size or shape includingsachet, pouch, canister, lining, sticker, etc. as well as part of thesecondary packaging or primary packaging container itself.

EXAMPLES

The following examples are offered to illustrate but not to limit theinvention.

Although the invention has been illustrated by the following examples,it is not to be construed as being limited thereby; but rather, theinvention encompasses the generic area as hereinbefore disclosed.Various modifications and embodiments can be made without departing fromthe spirit and scope thereof.

Examples 1-2: Procedure of Subcutaneous Injection of 3 mg Sumatriptan

The procedure used for subcutaneous injection of 3 mg sumatriptan is: 1)Dissolve sodium chloride in 80 percent of water for injection requiredfor the batch; 2) Add sumatriptan succinate to solution of step (1) andmake the volume with remaining 20 percent of water for injection; 3) Mixthe solution of step (2) till all the contents are dissolved; and Filtersterilize the solution of step (3) and dispense in suitablecontainer/vial.

TABLE 1 Ingredients of the compositions of Examples 1 & 2 Example 1Example 2 Ingredients Quantity per Unit (%) Quantity per Unit (%)Sumatriptan Succinate USP 0.84 0.84 Sodium Chloride USP 0.83 0.84 WaterFor Injection USP QS to 100 QS to 100 Osmolality (mOsmol/Kg) 288 293 pH4.62 4.5

Example 3: Assessment of the Stability of the Composition of Example 1

The stability of the composition of example 1 was assessed at twodifferent conditions: A) 40° C. and 75% RH for 3 months; and B) 30° C.and 65% RH for 12 months. The results are shown in Table 2 below. Theperiod of time after which the composition was assessed is indicated ineach table.

TABLE 2 Stability data of the composition of Example 1 Color of solutionStability Condition Appearance pH (AU) Impurity 3 months Clear; 4.70.005 Impurity C = 0.10  40° C. and 75% RH colorless; Impurity 1 = 0.41solution; Impurity 3 = 0.44 free from visible particulate matter 12months Clear; 4.6 0.003 Impurity C = 0.08  30° C. and 65% RH colorless;Impurity 1 = 0.48 solution; Impurity 3 = 0.21 free from visibleparticulate matter AU: Absorption units measured at 575 nm

Example 4: Assessment of Pharmacokinetics of Subcutaneous SumatriptanComposition of Example 1

A single-center study in 36 healthy subjects to assess pharmacokineticsof subcutaneous sumatriptan composition of Example 1 was performed. Theobjective of this study was to characterize the PK profile ofsubcutaneous sumatriptan composition. The results are shown in Table 3below.

TABLE 3 Summary of Pharmacokinetic parameters following a single SCinjection of Example 1 and IMITREX ® 3 mg (0.25 ml from 0.5 ml of 6 mginjection) Mean ± SD IMITREX ® mg Pharmacokinetic (0.25 ml from 0.5 mlof Parameters Example 1 6 mg injection) C_(max) (ng/mL) 49.2 ± 9.85 45.6± 8.97 t_(max) (hr)^(a) 0.187 (0.0833, 0.350) 0.248 (0.0828, 0.349)AUC_(0-t) (ng*hr/mL) 57.5 ± 8.06 53.7 ± 7.26 AUC_(0-inf) (ng*hr/mL) 59.4± 7.86 55.6 ± 7.42 AUC₀₋₂ (ng*hr/mL) 42.5 ± 6.35 39.5 ± 5.60 t_(1/2)(hr)  1.70 ± 0.358  1.67 ± 0.311 ^(a)t_(max) is presented as median(minimum, maximum)

Example 4: The Effect of Age, BMI, and Race on Plasma Concentrations ofSubcutaneous Sumatriptan: a Pooled Analysis

Oral, intranasal (IN), and subcutaneous (SC) injectable formulations ofsumatriptan are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) andare marketed in the United States. SC sumatriptan has a better efficacyprofile than oral and IN sumatriptan products. Absorption is more rapidwith SC administration (time to reach maximum observed [peak] plasmaconcentration [T_(max)] for SC Imitrex® is 12 minutes (5-20 minutes),significantly shorter than that for the oral (2 to 2.5 hours) and nasalroutes (60-90 minutes). As a result, onset of action with SC sumatriptan(10 minutes) is faster than with IN (30 to 45 minutes) or oral (45 to 60minutes) delivery.

There are several published pharmacokinetic (PK) studies forsumatriptan; however, very few of these examine whether sumatriptan's PKmetrics (i.e., C_(max) [maximum plasma concentration], AUC [area underthe plasma concentration vs. time curve]) are affected by covariatessuch as age, BMI, or race. In addition, sample size for many of thesestudies is small.

Currently SC sumatriptan is available in the U.S. in 4 and 6 mg dosageforms (Imitrex® STATdose, 0.5 ml) injections and as an injectablesolution (Imitrex® injection, 3 mg/0.25 ml). The composition of Example1 has been made for SC injection in a single-dose, 0.5-mL prefilledsyringe as a ready-to-use disposable autoinjector. Two clinicalpharmacology studies were conducted to support the PK bridge betweenExample 1 and Imitrex®. The efficacy profile of Example 1 is expected tobe the same as existing 3-mg sumatriptan injection products (half of the6 mg Imitrex® dosage form). Data were pooled from two pharmacologystudies for sumatriptan PK metrics by age, BMI, and race for Example 1and several Imitrex® products. Data from the two PK studies were pooledas the target populations and study methodologies were similar. Theobjective of this post hoc analysis, to analyze the effect of covariateson systemic exposure of sumatriptan, may provide insights into treatmentoutcomes.

Methods

The protocol was approved by the Chesapeake Research Review, Inc.Institutional Review Board and the study was conducted in compliancewith good clinical practice at Celerion Research (Tempe, Ariz. andLincoln, Nebr.). All studies used a single-dose, open-label, randomizedcrossover design to determine relative bioavailability following SCadministration of sumatriptan succinate in healthy fasted adults. Eachstudy included Example 1 (3 mg/0.5 mL) vs. either Imitrex® injection (3mg/0.25 ml or 6 mg/0.5 ml) or Imitrex® STATdose system (4 mg/0.5 ml or 6mg/0.5 ml). Brief descriptions of the three studies follow.

Study 002 (CD-002): This 3-way crossover study compared Example 1 toImitrex® injection 3 mg and 6 mg. Subjects were randomized to one of thesix treatment sequences.

Study 003 (CD-003): This 3-way crossover study compared Example 1 toImitrex® 4 mg STATdose system and 6 mg STATdose system. Subjects wererandomized to one of the six treatment sequences.

All Studies: In each period, a single dose was administered SC overapproximately 5 seconds. Pharmacokinetic samples were obtained pre-doseand at 0.083, 0.167, 0.25, 0.333, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12hours post-dose. Subjects were confined from 8 hours before the firstdose through the last sample after the final dose. Doses were separatedby at least 2 days.

Plasma concentrations (Cp) of sumatriptan were determined usingtechniques known in the art. Pharmacokinetic parameters for each dosingsession were determined using non-compartmental methods with WinNonlinVersion 6.3 (Certara, Cary, N.C.) or SAS Version 9.3 (SAS Institute,Cary, N.C.). The following parameters were determined:

1. C_(max): The maximum measured Cp, determined by examination of thedata

2. AUC₀₋₂: Area under the Cp vs. time curve from the time of drugadministration to the 2-hour sample.

3. AUC_(0-inf): Area under the concentration-time curve from the time ofdrug administration extrapolated to infinity. AUC_(0-inf) is calculatedas the sum of AUC_(0-t) (where t is last measured non-zeroconcentration) plus the ratio of the last measurable Cp to theelimination rate constant. AUC was calculated by the linear trapezoidalmethod.

Graphics were prepared to examine the relationship between each ofAUC₀₋₂, AUC_(0-inf), and C_(max) and the following covariates: weight(kg), BMI (kg/m²), age (years), gender, and race (categorized as white,black, or other [two subjects, listed as “multiple” race werecharacterized as ‘other’]). For continuous covariates, the relationshipbetween each metric and covariate was evaluated by linear regression (Pand r values displayed) and a smoother (Supersmoother®). In addition,the value for each covariate was identified and the value for the metricfor subjects below and above that covariate value was determined; theratio of these values is reported. For categorical covariates, the meanfor each group was identified; groups were compared by t test. Ratio ofvalues for female/males and non-white/white were determined.

Results

Subject Disposition.

Demographics characteristics are summarized in Table 4. All subjectswere healthy and none used tobacco. The total number of sessions was 96for Example 1, 35 for Imitrex injection 3 mg; 36 for Imitrex® STATdose 4mg, and 68 for Imitrex® STATdose 6 mg.

TABLE 4 Demographic characteristics of the subjects in the threestudies. Values for gender are counts; for the other metrics, values aremean (range). Study 001 Study 002 Study 003 Metric (N = 26) (N = 36) (N= 36) Gender Male 13 17 16 Female 13 19 20 Age (years) 29.1 (21-45) 31.7(18-45) 32.0 (18-45) Weight (kg) 78.3 (47.7- 73.4 (49.3-109.6) 74.8(51.3- 113.2) 116.5) Height 169.9 (151- 166.5 (151-184) 166.7 (153- (cm)193) 188) BMI 27.0 (19.2- 26.4 (19.6-34.6) 26.7 (19.8- (kg/m²) 34.8)33.8)

Effect of BMI:

For most treatment groups, increasing BMI was associated with decreasingexposure for all three metrics (P<0.05 [linear regression] for eachtreatment group within each metric); exceptions were AUC_(0-inf) forImitrex, 3 mg (P=0.052) and C_(max) for Imitrex® 4 mg (P=0.061). AUC₀₋₂for stockier subjects (BMI>26.33) was 0.89-0.97 times the value forleaner subjects (BMI≤26.33). For leaner subjects receiving Example 1,AUC₀₋₂ was slightly less than that for stockier subjects receiving 4 mgImitrex® and larger than that for stockier subjects receiving 3 mgImitrex®. AUC_(0-inf) for stockier subjects was 0.87-0.97 times thevalue for leaner subjects. For leaner subjects receiving Example 1,AUC_(0-inf) was less than that for stockier subjects receiving 4 mgImitrex® and larger than that for stockier subjects receiving 3 mgImitrex®. C_(max) for stockier subjects was 0.88-0.98 times the valuefor leaner subjects. For leaner subjects receiving Example 1, C_(max)was less than that for stockier subjects receiving 4 mg Imitrex® andlarger than that for stockier subjects receiving 3 mg Imitrex®.

TABLE 5 Effect of BMI on systemic exposure to sumatriptan. Values arefor subjects with BMI < 26.33/for subjects with BMI ≥ 26.33. Imitrex 3mg (0.25 ml Imitrex Imitrex Example 1 of 6 mg 4 mg 6 mg 3 mg injection)(STATdose) (STATdose) AUC₀₋₂ 43.35/ 39.2/37.99* 52.51/48.61*80.14/71.38* (ng/ml · hours) 40.03* AUC_(0-inf) 62.41/ 57.23/52.4672.24/70.94* 112.22/ (ng/ml · hours) 54.76* 103.22* C_(max) (ng/ml)51.2/45.2* 48.1/43.65* 59.45/57.90 90.5/78.40* *Lean and stocky subjectsdiffer (P < 0.05) by t test.

Effect of Race:

For Example 1, AUC₀₋₂ and AUC_(0-inf) were lower in non-whites comparedto whites; the ratio of medians was 0.84 and 0.89, respectively (Table6).

TABLE 6 Effect of race on systemic exposure to sumatriptan. Values areratio of the medians for non-whites/whites. Imitrex 3 mg (0.25 mlImitrex Imitrex Example 1 of 6 mg 4 mg 6 mg 3 mg injection) (STATdose)(STATdose) AUC₀₋₂ (ng/ml · 0.84* 0.87 0.89 0.84 hours) AUC_(0-inf)(ng/ml · 0.89* 0.92 0.87 0.89 hours) C_(max) (ng/ml) 0.82  0.89 0.890.82 *White subjects differ (P < 0.05) from non-white subjects by ttest.

Safety.

In 98 subjects exposed to SC sumatriptan, all reported AEs were amongthose currently described for marketed sumatriptan products. There wereno deaths or related SAEs. Subjects were monitored for injection sitereactions including pain, tenderness erythema/redness, andinduration/swelling before dosing and at 6 and 12 hours after study drugadministration in all periods. The incidence of injection site pain was14%, lower than that observed with the Imitrex® injection 3 mg and 4 mgand 6 mg Imitrex® STATdose devices (39%, 42% and 53%, respectively). Allthese effects were mild in nature and resolved without medicalintervention.

Discussion

These post hoc exploratory analyses demonstrate a statisticallysignificant impact of body size, assessed by BMI, on systemic exposureto sumatriptan administered as Example 1 or Imitrex®. For each treatmentgroup, subjects with lower BMI had higher systemic exposure compared tosubjects with higher BMI.

For BMI, the value of the BMI was used to divide subjects into twogroups; then the value for each metric was compared between thesegroups. If the ratio were markedly less than unity, it would suggestthat subjects with higher BMI experienced lower exposure for thatmetric. In turn, it might imply different dosing requirements as afunction of that metric. For C_(max) and AUC₀₋₂ (the two metrics thatare probably most relevant to sumatriptan's efficacy), these ratiovalues for weight and BMI were >0.75 for all products.

These post hoc analyses demonstrate that sumatriptan exposure was lowerin stockier subjects.

Subjects with a high BMI have an increased risk of cutaneous allodynia,a risk factor for chronic migraine. Patients with cutaneous allodyniarespond poorly or suboptimally to triptans for treatment of episodicmigraine. Therefore BMI may impact efficacy of sumatriptan or othertriptans for episodic migraneurs.

In at least some of the previously described embodiments, one or moreelements used in an embodiment can interchangeably be used in anotherembodiment unless such a replacement is not technically feasible. Itwill be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various otheromissions, additions and modifications may be made to the methods andstructures described above without departing from the scope of theclaimed subject matter. All such modifications and changes are intendedto fall within the scope of the subject matter, as defined by theappended claims.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singularterms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from theplural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as isappropriate to the context and/or application. The varioussingular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sakeof clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, termsused herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of theappended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term“including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” theterm “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term“includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,”etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if aspecific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such anintent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence ofsuch recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid tounderstanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of theintroductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claimrecitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed toimply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinitearticles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing suchintroduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one suchrecitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases“one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or“an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “at least one”or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articlesused to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specificnumber of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, thoseskilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should beinterpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the barerecitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, means at leasttwo recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in thoseinstances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C,etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the senseone having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “asystem having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not belimited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and Btogether, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and Ctogether, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “atleast one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a constructionis intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understandthe convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” wouldinclude but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, Calone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A,B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those withinthe art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting twoor more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, ordrawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities ofincluding one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. Forexample, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include thepossibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are describedin terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize thatthe disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individualmember or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

As will be understood by one of skill in the art, for any and allpurposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, allranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible sub-rangesand combinations of sub-ranges thereof. Any listed range can be easilyrecognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range beingbroken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths,tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein canbe readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third,etc. As will also be understood by one skilled in the art all languagesuch as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” and the likeinclude the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequentlybroken down into sub-ranges as discussed above. Finally, as will beunderstood by one skilled in the art, a range includes each individualmember. Thus, for example, a group having 1-3 articles refers to groupshaving 1, 2, or 3 articles. Similarly, a group having 1-5 articlesrefers to groups having 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 articles, and so forth.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of treating acute migraine in a patientin need thereof, said method comprising: subcutaneously administering bya single-use, ready to use, disposable, auto-injector to the patient acomposition comprising an aqueous solution of sumatriptan succinate inan amount of 4.2 mg, and sodium chloride in an amount of 4.2 mgcontained in a 0.5 mL pre-filled syringe (PFS) fully assembled into theauto-injector; wherein said composition has osmolality between 275 to315 mOsm/kg; wherein said composition has a pH of about 4.2 to 5.3;wherein the patient is suffering from acute migraine and the compositionis not administered for prophylactic treatment of migraine or treatmentof cluster headache.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the subcutaneousadministration of said composition to the patient results in a systemicexposure characterized by at least one of the following plasma profiles:a. C_(max) of about 35 ng/ml to about 57 ng/ml; b. AUC₀₋₂ of about 30ng·hr/ml to about 50 ng·hr/ml; and/or c. AUC_(0-inf) of about 43ng·hr/ml to about 70 ng·hr/ml.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein thesubcutaneous administration of said composition to the patient providesa reduction in injection site pain as compared to subcutaneousadministration of a composition comprising an injectable solution ofsumatriptan succinate in an amount of 4.2 mg sumatriptan succinatecontained in 0.25 ml.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the subcutaneousadministration of said composition to the patient provides a reductionin injection site pain as compared to subcutaneous administration of acomposition comprising 5.6 mg sumatriptan succinate contained in 0.5 mL.5. The method of claim 1, wherein the subcutaneous administration ofsaid composition to the patient provides a reduction in injection sitepain as compared to subcutaneous administration of a compositioncomprising 8.4 mg sumatriptan succinate contained in 0.5 mL.